Quad/Graphics Signs Deal To Acquire Brown for $100M

SUSSEX, WI—Quad/Graphics Inc. and Waseca, MN-based Brown Printing have jointly announced a definitive agreement whereby Quad/Graphics will acquire Brown, which serves publishers and catalogers with printing, distribution and integrated media solutions from three manufacturing facilities.

The transaction is subject to customary regulatory clearances and is expected to close in the second half of 2014. Both Quad/Graphics’ board of directors and Brown’s parent company—Gruner + Jahr and its shareholders—approved the transaction.

Quad/Graphics acquired Brown for $100 million and intends to use cash on hand or draw on its revolving credit facility to finance the acquisition. Brown expects to generate approximately $350 million in revenues during fiscal year 2014. Quad/Graphics expects that the acquisition will be accretive to earnings and that the purchase price multiple will be less than four times adjusted EBITDA after taking into account anticipated synergies.

“This acquisition is consistent with our ongoing strategy to transform Quad/Graphics and create value for our clients and shareholders,” said Joel Quadracci, Quad/Graphics chairman, president and CEO. “Brown is a well-respected, financially strong company focused on delivering superior quality and impeccable customer service to a diverse range of clients. This acquisition will enhance the many ways we help publishers and marketers drive top-line revenues while better controlling their overall total cost of production and distribution.

“With print as our foundation, we will continue to find innovative ways to connect and integrate print with other media channels to increase reach, response and return on investment. We are excited by the opportunities ahead and look forward to welcoming Brown’s clients and employees into our family.”

Mike Amundson, president and CEO of Brown Printing, added: “Brown has prospered under the ownership of Gruner + Jahr and its shareholders for the past 35 years. Their strong financial support along with Brown’s talented and dedicated employees has fueled our growth. Looking forward, we are excited about this acquisition as it will benefit our clients through the expanded depth of the combined platform. I am convinced that Quad/Graphics is the best owner for the future of Brown.”